Millions drive ‘perilously tired’

Millions of motorists across the UK could be putting lives at risk by driving when feeling tired, a survey by the RAC suggests.
Almost half of those surveyed said they drove when drowsy and a third said they had been close to falling asleep.

Men aged 35-64 were found to be the biggest risk-takers, the RAC found.

The survey added 11% of motorists had driven more than 500 miles (805km) without a break and 20% were unaware of steps they could take to stay alert.

Nearly 70% of motorists said they believed winding the window down could ward off fatigue, while one in three said turning up the stereo could help them stay awake.

‘Likely to be fatal’

Jim Horne, director of Loughborough University’s sleep research centre, said motorists who ignored signs of tiredness were “taking serious risks”.

“They don’t seem to realise that crashes involving falling asleep at the wheel are more likely to be fatal because of the absence of braking and greater speed at impact,” he said.

He said drivers were most vulnerable during the small hours of the morning and in mid-afternoon.

“Motorists’ increasing tendency to push themselves to the limit, because of work pressures, is again very worrying, and in this respect, employers should bear a greater responsibility in ensuring the safety of their staff,” he added.

Robin Cummins, RAC road safety consultant, said drivers were using ineffective methods to prevent themselves falling asleep at the wheel.

“It’s crucial that we take the time to plan breaks and recognise when our bodies need a rest, to ensure we are capable of staying alert and able to concentrate to ultimately protect both our own, and other people’s, safety,” he said.